Gonzales running back wins Ford Tough award

The stakes couldn't have been higher for Gonzales against unbeaten and No. 7 Giddings.

The Apaches had lost their first District 26-3A game and another loss would have put a damper on their playoff chances.

Running back Cecil Johnson made sure Gonzales avoided the scenario.

Johnson rushed for 259 yards and five touchdowns to lead the Apaches to a 43-23 win and was selected as the Class 3A Built Ford Tough Texas High School Football Player of the Week.

The 5-foot-8, 160-pound running back had three touchdown runs in the first quarter and after the Buffaloes had pulled within seven points, had touchdown runs of 19 and 26 yards in the fourth quarter to seal the win.

"Cecil is a tremendously versatile player," said Gonzales coach Ricky Lock. "He'll line up in the slot, take a direct snap in a shotgun formation, and play cornerback. He has a dynamic personality and is well-liked around school. He's a big part of our game plan."

Johnson rushed for over 1,700 yards last season and earned honorable-mention all-state honors.

He has rushed for an area-leading 1,392 yards and 18 touchdowns this season and has six games with over 200 yards rushing.